"Debugging forces you to think like a machine"
Debugging is a crucial skill for a programmer. Often, we find ourselves struggling with it. Mostly, we are able to debug our code easily but sometimes it can become super challenging.
I have found myself getting stuck, debugging code for days, even months. How do I able to hold my patience and navigate a way to find a solution out of it? If you start to see debugging as an interesting process then things will change here.An opportunity to unravel the Mystery and learn something new. You will find yourself enjoying it. The whole process provides dopamine based on level of challenge. Bigger the challenge, bigger the fun !
Debugging is a process that forces you to think like a machine. Think like how machines work. This skill sets you apart from most of the programmers out there.
Here i am sharing my technique that has helped me to debug various ad hoc issues over the years of my programming journey. Let’s keep it simple; I will cover this in three words: Doubt, confirm, eliminate. Now, you might wonder how these three words encapsulate the essence of a robust debugging process. Didn’t get it? Let’s understand this.
Before going into the debugging, i want you to get a state of peace and calm of mind but that’s not always possible. Ok, I have a solution for this also. Let me explain so that you get the context completely.
Consider Your code and machine( where code runs ) as your virtual enemy — let’s call it “the system.” Assume that while debugging, whenever you get frustrated, the system laughs at you. The system chuckles at your expenses. We don’t want to give them any chance. So, can you act now? Start by acting like you are cool.
Let’s understand the technique now.
Doubt everything
This might sound counterintuitive, especially for seasoned programmers. But here is the thing, doubt each and every line of code. Leave your years of experience aside. This is a kind of shift of mind where you don’t have to assume or expect anything, I know how this works. Cultivate skepticism as a tool to unearth the bug’s hiding place.
Confirm your doubt
Confirm your doubt using debugging tools, print statements, or any resource aiding in confirming or debunking your suspicions. Check and validate the output of code. At this stage, resist the urge to rush to conclusions.
Eliminate systematically
We will use a simple elimination method here. When doubt gets confirmed, proceed further to doubt next, confirm and eliminate until the root cause of issue is revealed. Each elimination brings you closer to resolving the issue.
Going through all the above steps, Speak up and explain your code to yourself like how you will explain to others. You can join with your peer programmers and explain the code line by line to him.
Additional Strategies
Take Breaks
Sometimes, stepping away from the code can provide a fresh perspective. It allows your mind to rest and return with renewed focus, often leading to insights you might have missed earlier.
Create a Debugging plan
Sometimes when we find ourselves completely stuck at some point. We are not able to figure out what to do next. It’s better to step back and create a debugging plan. What does creating a debugging plan mean?
Think about what you’ve tried, how and why it worked and what didn’t and why it didn’t work. Based on it, plan what you should do next that can help you to drill down the issue further or can give at least more hints about the next step.
Conclusion
Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and remember, every bug conquered makes you a better programmer.
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